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Program Cost:$3300 March 10 - 18, 2012 (Dates subject to change)
Our journey begins in Peru, the cradle of the Incan Empire and home to many indigenous populations. Here you have the opportunity to explore century old streets of Cuzco, our base before trekking into Machu Picchu, watching legends of the past come to life every day.
While in Cuzco, we will experience the colonial town with its Inca remains and subsequent buildings and stunning cathedrals constructed after the Spanish Conquest. Just outside of this city we explore several key archaeological sites, fortresses and temples such as Sacsayhuaman and Ollantaytambo which boast beautiful views, narrow streets and actual Inca villages along with traditional colourful markets.
We will take some time to prepare before starting our 3 night/4 day Trek along the sacred trails that lead us to our final destination - Machu Picchu, an Andean city still shrouded in mystery. During this hike you will learn about the history of the Incas and how attuned they were to the earth and its elements; you will hear about the Spanish conquests, the decline of the Incan empire, and the fascinating discovery of the trails and sacred valleys leading to Machu Picchu. Upon reaching Machu Picchu you will feel a sense of wonder and accomplishment, not to mention respect for the locals who can hike these paths in a quarter of the time at incredible speed at such high altitude.
The trek is a spectacular adventure and an unforgettable journey, where you experience breathtaking views, thunderous waterfalls, and lush vegetation – surrounding ancient Incan ruins and local communities that still exist in these areas today. We end the trip exploring the archaeological site with a visit to Aguas Calientes - the hot natural baths at the base of Machu Picchu. Our comfortable train ride back is where we can relax before returning to Cusco.
If you decide not to participate in the 3 night/4 day trek to Machu Picchu you will have the option to participate in volunteer work on a farm for one day, tour other sites in the region for two days and spend one day in Machu Picchu. You will take a train to Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, tour the site and then return by train with the group to Cuzco. The Trek involves several of hours of hiking every day at high altitude and can be exhausting but exhilarating. The sense of accomplishment at the end of this excursion is unbelievable. If you choose to do the hike we will provide you with details to ensure you are able to handle the experience and will suggest a fitness preparation plan prior to departure.
SAMPLE ITINERARY:
DAY 1: Depart Toronto to Cuzco, Peru Arrival on same day Transfer to Hotel
DAY 2: Breakfast Guided tour of Cuzco City and visit the Main Square, the Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun or Korikancha. We will also visit the nearby ruins: Inca sites of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara and the impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuaman Lunch enroute Dinner at Restaurant in Cuzco Overnight at hotel
DAY 3: Breakfast Morning Meeting to prep you for your 3 night/4 day hike to Machu Piccu
Followed by Full Day excursion to the Urubamba Valley, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and a visit to the picturesque Indian Pisac Market.
We will visit the Inca Fortress and Citadel of Ollantaytambo, built to guard the entrance to this part of the Valley, and protect it from possible invasion from the tribes in the Lower jungle. On our way back to Cuzco we stop of at the picturesque Andean Village of Chinchero to visit the ruins of the Royal Hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui. Lunch enroute Dinner at Restaurant in Cuzco Overnight at hotel
DAY 4: After Breakfast, early in the morning, our guide will pick you up from your hotel to transfer you by bus to the "km 82" point. Here you will meet the team that will join you during the trek, such as the porters, camp assistants and cooks. You will begin the walk, crossing a footbridge to hike a gentle two hours down the Urubamba Valley, and then visit imposing sculpted Inca farming terraces and the settlement of Patallaqta on the banks of the Cusichaca side river. Then we climb a short way up the Cusichaca valley to Huayllabamba, the last inhabited village on the trail, where the first camp is set up. Lunch, snacks and Dinner enroute and at campsites. Camp Equipment will be provided throughout.
DAY 5: After breakfast, the hardest part of the trail begins, with a steep ascent, followed by 3 hours of walking until reaching the first step, Warmiwañusca called (Dead Woman), up to 4.200 m.a.s.l. approximately. After lunch in Vizcachayoc we will descend towards Pacaymayo (3500 m.a.s.l.) for dinnertime . Overnight at campsite in mountains. Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks and Dinner enroute at campsites.
DAY 6: After breakfast the ascent will begin again to 3900 m.a.s.l., where you will enjoy a guided visit to the Archaeological Complex Runkurakay and the Inca Citadel of Sayacmarca (3600 m.a.s.l.). Lunch in Chaqquicocha. Then, you will continue walking towards Phuya Patamarka (Town in the Clouds), another important Archaeological Monument. After a brief rest, we will continue walking to Wiñay Huayna (Always Young), for a guided visit to this spectacularly located Archaeological Complex. Overnight at campsite in mountains (showers available at this campsite). Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks and Dinner enroute at campsites.
DAY 7: After breakfast we start walking for one hour by the forest towards Inti Punku (Door of the Sun), known as the front door to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you will have a guided tour of the ruins and monuments, such as the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the cemeteries. In the early afternoon a bus takes us to the small town of Aguas Calientes, where we will have lunch at a pizzeria. You will have time to visit the natural hot baths used by the Incas if you wish and then board a train to Cuzco. Late dinner and overnight at hotel.
DAY 8: Breakfast Day to relax and optional visit to markets and town Farewell dinner at local restaurant Overnight at hotel.
DAY 9: Breakfast Transfer to airport Early Flight from Cuzco to Toronto.
March Break Program includes: • Round Trip from Toronto Pearson Airport to Cusco, Peru • All Airport Transfers • Private Coach Transfers for activities when required • Guided tours, visits and entrance fees as per itinerary • Accommodation in twins or triples in hotel in Cusco and in tents while on TREK • Full Breakfasts and Dinners with juice/water daily
March Break Program does not include: Lunches Applicable Departure Taxes & Airport Service Fees Vaccinations & Medications if applicable Optional Comprehensive Travel Insurance (Cancellation & Medical): $175 Or Optional Cancellation Insurance :$125
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